Table

ABSTRACT

A pivotable folding utility table includes a table top having a pair of support pedestals pivotally attached thereto. A first pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces pivotally attached to a retaining assembly preferably mounted in relation to the table top. Specifically, the retaining assembly includes a cross-brace member operably disposed through openings formed in the distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces, thus providing a pivotal engagement in relation to the table top. Alternatively, a second retaining assembly including a cross-brace member may be mounted in relation to the table top, wherein the distal end of the first pivotal support brace pivotally engages the first retaining member and the distal end of the second pivotal support brace pivotally engages the second retaining member. In addition, the first and second support pedestals may comprise at least one support leg, wherein each support leg of the first and second support pedestals are laterally offset from each other so as to permit an offset displacement of the support legs when the support pedestals are disposed in a collapsed position.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/932,331, filed Oct. 31, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,571,686; which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/554,371, filed Oct.30, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,464,654; which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 11/208,812, filed Aug. 22, 2005, now U.S.Pat. No. 7,128,002; which is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 10/963,919, filed Oct. 13, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,931,999;which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/385,385,filed Mar. 10, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,832,563; which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/097,104, filed Mar.12, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,530,331; which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/635,303, filed Aug. 9, 2000, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,431,092; which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/228,326, filed Jan. 11, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No.6,112,674; which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationserial no. 29/095,372, filed Oct. 21, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. Des.414,626, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in theirentireties.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. The Field of the Invention

The present invention is related to a utility table, and moreparticularly, to a portable folding utility table having one or morecenter support assemblies and off-set support legs that selectivelysupport the utility table above a surface.

2. The Technical Background

Portable folding utility tables are indispensable for groups ororganizations that have limited floor space usable for multiplepurposes. For example, foldable utility tables can be placed in apre-determined configuration to meet the space requirements of a schoolgymnasium, a church multi-purpose room, or a hotel conference meetingroom. Afterward, the tables can be neatly stored away and the conferenceor meeting room used for a different purpose. Thus, portable foldingutility tables allow a group or organization to maximize the efficiencyand utility of a particular space.

Foldable utility tables can also provide an immediate temporary workspace in a garage, tool shed, and the like. The portability andfoldability of these utility tables allows a user to conveniently setup, take down, and store the table whenever and wherever the userchooses.

A major drawback with many portable folding utility tables of the priorart, however, is their inherent size and bulkiness. Many such utilitytables require two people to collapse and store the table after use.Moreover, some prior art portable folding utility tables are heavyenough to cause injury if dropped or mishandled. These unwieldy tablesare usually made from hardwood, particle board, or similarly heavymaterials. In an attempt to overcome this weight and bulkiness problem,some prior art portable utility tables are formed of lighter-weightmaterials. However, many of these lightweight utility tables generallylack the sturdiness of the heavier-weight prior art utility tables.

Another disadvantage to prior art utility tables is the means used forattaching the table support legs or two or more support pedestals to theunderside of the table. As will be appreciated, prior art table supportlegs are typically attached to the table top using threaded screws orbolts that are drilled into the underside of the table top. This meansof attachment may compromise the integrity of the table top therebymaking it weaker at the point of attachment between the table supportlegs and the table top. Other attachment mechanisms may include a formof bonding the table support legs as support pedestals directly againstthe surface of the table top. Often, however, this means of attachmentby bonding weakens the structural integrity of the table top. Thus, whenthe table support legs fail, a portion of the material forming the tabletop may pull away at the point of the bonded attachment thereby makingthe table costly, if not impossible to repair.

In an attempt to overcome the foregoing disadvantages, prior art utilitytables were developed by those skilled in the art that are equipped withcomplex or heavy-duty attachment mechanisms that facilitate a secureattachment between the table support legs or the support pedestals andthe table top. These types of attachment mechanisms, however, arenormally heavier, more costly, more difficult to install, and typicallyrequire additional time to manufacture.

The previously stated disadvantages are compounded by the fact that manyprior art utility tables incorporate a separate and distinct attachmentmechanism for attaching each table support leg or pedestal to the tabletop. As appreciated, most existing portable folding utility tables havetwo sets of support legs or pedestal supports, one at each end of thetable. Each of these supports is typically attached to the underside ofthe table top at two places or points of contact. Correspondingly, manyof these types of utility tables have at least four separate points ofattachment, each attachment between the support legs or pedestalsupports facilitated by a separate attachment mechanism. One particularproblem with utility tables having separate and distinct attachmentmechanisms is that they are generally susceptible to bowing in thecenter of the table top under stress. This is especially true withlarger banquet style tables.

Yet another drawback with many prior art utility tables is that the hardmaterials used to maintain a sufficient rigidity and sturdiness of thetable top often have sharp edges which may be uncomfortable for the userto lean against or rest their arms upon. Further, these materials mayalso be susceptible to damage or degradation from the elements ofnature.

In addition, smaller utility tables that are found in the prior artusually comprise shortened support legs that fail to provide sufficientheight to the table top in relation to the underlying surface, thusthese types of table are generally uncomfortable to users. Inparticular, when these prior art utility tables are configured in thefolded position for storage, the table support legs are required to beshort enough so not to interfere with each other when folded in aconventional fashion underneath the table top. Small folding utilitytables of the prior art are also typically bulky when disposed in thefolded position because complex and unwieldy mechanisms are generallyrequired to accommodate the use of longer support legs that may beincorporated to overcome the inherent height deficit found in mostsmaller utility tables.

From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that it would be anadvancement in the art to provide a portable folding utility table thatis durable enough to withstand the increased wear and tear that portableutility tables are subjected to over long periods of time and sturdyenough to support varying sized loads that will be placed on the table,while at the same time being light-weight enough to be easily set up andtaken down.

It would be another advancement in the art to provide a portable foldingutility table having a leg or support pedestal attachment mechanism thatdoes not involve a complex design, heavy duty attachment hardware, orneed to be screwed, bolted, or bonded to the under side of the tabletop. It would be a further advancement in the art to provide a portablefolding utility table that minimizes the points of attachment to thesurface of the table top and facilitates attachment mechanisms thatinterrelate with each other to support the table top above an underlyingsurface.

Furthermore, it would be an advancement in the art to provide a portablefolding utility table that may provide a smaller working surface thanlarger utility table, but that is comfortable to work at in relation toits height disposition and which is capable of withstanding the elementsof nature.

Finally, it would be an advancement in the art to provide a portablefolding utility table in which the support legs or pedestals, having alength greater than the corresponding length of the table top, can foldagainst the underside of the table top when disposed for storage withoutinterfering with each other, so that smaller frames and table tops canbe used that accommodate a sufficient height disposition in relation tothe underlying support surface.

Such a portable folding utility table is disclosed and claimed herein.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a novel portable folding utilitytable having a center support assembly. The utility table includes atable top supported by a pair of support pedestals. In one presentlypreferred embodiment, the table top includes a mounting surface and aworking surface formed opposite the mounting surface. The workingsurface may be textured and may include an outer periphery, at least aportion of which is beveled to provide comfort to a user.

A first end of each support pedestal is preferably attached to themounting surface of the table top. In one presently preferredembodiment, the support pedestals are pivotally attached to the mountingsurface of the table top, to allow each support pedestal to be movedbetween a collapsed position and an extended position for supporting thetable top above a surface. A securing member may also be attached to themounting surface for releasably securing one or more support pedestalsin the collapsed position.

Additionally, the utility table may include a first pivoting supportbrace attached to the first support pedestal at a proximal end and tothe mounting surface at a distal end thereof. Similarly, a secondpivoting support brace may be attached to the second support pedestal ata proximal end and to the mounting surface at a distal end thereof. Inone presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, the distalends of the first and second pivotal support braces are disposedcontiguous to each other at a retention assembly attached to themounting surface or, in the alternative, to a support frame.

In one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, theretention assembly may include a single cross-brace member disposedthrough openings formed at the distal ends of the pivotal support bracesand secured to the mounting surface. The mounting surface may beconfigured such that opposing ends of the cross-brace member areintroduced through openings disposed in opposing sides of the mountingsurface of the table top and may further include a mount for receivingand retaining the cross-brace member therein. Thus, the distal ends ofboth support pedestals are preferably attached along the length of thecross-brace member which is secured to the mounting surface, therebyreducing the number of attachment mechanisms and interrelating thesupport pedestals to the table top to increase structural support andefficiency of manufacture.

In another presently preferred embodiment, each support pedestalincludes a first member pivotally engaging the mounting surface of thetable top and a second member configured for telescoping engagement withthe first member. This configuration permits the height of the supportpedestal to be disposed between a lengthened position and a retractedposition.

In an alternative presently preferred embodiment, the table may includetwo cross-brace members providing separate attachment points for thefirst and second pivotal support braces. Such a configuration isparticularly desirable for tables having an extended length, in which itmay not be advantageous for each of the pivotal support braces to havelengths sufficient for extending into the center of the table top.Correspondingly, a dual cross-brace configuration may provide additionalspace for accommodating one or more user's legs under the table top.

Moreover, in yet another presently preferred embodiment of the presentinvention, each support pedestal may include two legs slightly offsetfrom the corresponding legs of the other support pedestal disposed onthe opposing side of the table top, so that longer support legs can beaccommodated under a smaller table top when disposed above an underlyingsurface. This off-set distance is sufficient to keep the support legs ofthe opposing support pedestal from interfering with one another, thusallowing displacement substantially against the mounting surface of thetable top when disposed in the retracted position for storage.

From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that the present inventionprovides a portable folding utility table that is durable enough towithstand increased wear and tear yet is light-weight for easy set upand take down. The present invention also provides a novel centersupport assembly that provides increased structural stability to thetable top with efficient design such that to allow the interrelation ofthe support pedestals. The center support assembly is also costeffective to manufacture and does not compromise the structuralintegrity of the table top. Further, the present invention provides autility table that facilitates a height that is comfortable for one ormore users to work at. The foregoing and other advantages and featuresof the present invention will become more fully apparent by examinationof the following description of the presently preferred embodiments andappended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

These and other objects and features of the present invention willbecome more fully apparent from the following description and appendedclaims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forthhereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To better understand the invention, a more particular description of theinvention will be rendered by reference to the appended drawings. Thesedrawings only provide information concerning typical embodiments of theinvention and are not to be considered limiting of its scope. Theinvention will be described and explained with additional specificityand detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective cut-away view of one presently preferredembodiment of a portable folding utility table with center supportassembly;

FIG. 2 is an exploded, perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1illustrating various components of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 illustrates aretaining assembly and support pedestals in relation to a mountingsurface of the table top;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of another presently preferred embodimentof the portable folding utility table that includes two center supportassemblies; and

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of yet another presently preferredembodiment of the portable folding utility table with center supportassembly with an off-set disposition of the legs of the opposing supportpedestals.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

It will be readily understood that the components of the presentinvention, as generally described and illustrated in the Figures herein,could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of differentconfigurations Thus, the following more detailed description of theembodiments of the assembly and method of the present invention, asrepresented in FIGS. 1 through 5, is not intended to limit the scope ofthe invention, as claimed, but it is merely representative of thepresently preferred embodiments of the invention.

The presently preferred embodiments of the invention will be bestunderstood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts aredesignated by like numerals throughout.

One presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, designatedgenerally at 10, is best illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. As shown, withparticular reference to FIG. 1, a utility table according to the presentinvention is generally designated at 10. The utility table 10 preferablyincludes a table top 12 having a mounting surface 14 and a workingsurface 16 disposed opposite the mounting surface 14. In one presentlypreferred embodiment, the table top 12 is supported by a first supportpedestal 18 and a second support pedestal 20. The first and secondsupport pedestals 18, 20 may each comprise a first end 22 attached tothe mounting surface 14 of the table top 12.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, the utility table 10 of one presentlypreferred embodiment includes a first pivotal support brace 24 having aproximal end 26 attached to the first support pedestal 18 and a distalend 28 attached to the mounting surface 14. Similarly, a second pivotalsupport brace 30 is shown having a proximal end 32 attached to thesecond support pedestal 20 and a distal end 34 attached to the mountingsurface 14. The distal end 28 of the first pivotal support brace 24 maybe disposed contiguous the distal end 34 of the second pivotal supportbrace 30. The distal ends 28, 34 of the pivotal support braces 24, 30are disposed in relation to a retaining assembly 36, which may beattached to the mounting surface 14. In one preferred embodiment, theretaining assembly 36 comprises a cross member.

As shown in FIG. 2, the utility table 10 includes a frame 40. The frame40 may comprise a first side rail 42 and an opposing second side rail44. Preferably, the first side rail 42 is disposed substantiallyparallel the opposing second side rail 44, thereby providing a generallylongitudinal alignment therebetween. The first and second side rails 42,44 may be configured with a plurality of retaining apertures 46 tofacilitate attachment of the support pedestals 18, 20 and the crossbrace member 36 to the frame 40.

In one presently preferred embodiment, the mounting surface 14 of thetable top 12 comprises opposing longitudinal interior side walls 48 andopposing orthogonal interior side walls 52 disposed along an interiorperiphery of the table top 12. The first and second side rails 42, 44may be secured to respective opposing longitudinal side walls 48, thusadding rigidity and strength to the structural integrity of table top12. In one presently preferred embodiment, the side rails 42, 44 aresecured to the opposing longitudinal side walls 48 by fasteners. It willbe appreciated by those skilled in the art that the side rails 42, 44may be secured to the opposing longitudinal side walls 48 of themounting surface 14 using any number or variety of fasteners readilyknown in the art, such as, for example, screws, bolts, rivets,adhesives, or the like.

The cross-section of the side rails 42, 44 may be configured having anS-shape. In one presently preferred embodiment, the side rails 42, 44may be attached to the respective longitudinal side walls 48, 50 as toform respective channels 50 along the side rails 42, 44 between the siderails 42, 44 and the longitudinal side walls 48 (See FIGS. 1 and 2). Inthis configuration, the first end 22 of the support pedestals 18, 20 maybe positioned within opposing respective retaining apertures 46 formedin the side rails 42, 44 abutting the longitudinal side walls 48 withinthe channels 50, thereby substantially preventing lateral movement ofthe support pedestals 18, 20 relative to the table top 12. Likewise, thecross brace member 36 may be positioned within opposing respectiveretaining apertures 46 formed in the side rails 42, 44 abutting thelongitudinal side walls 48 within the channels 50, thereby substantiallypreventing lateral movement of the cross brace member 36 relative to thetable top 12. In one presently preferred embodiment, the supportpedestals 18, 20 and the cross brace member 36 are preferably disposedsubstantially parallel to each other and in spaced-apart relationship,wherein the cross brace member 36 is positioned between the opposingsupport pedestals 18, 20. Still referring to FIG. 2, the frame 40 mayalso comprise a first end rail 54 and an opposing second end rail 56.Preferably, the first end rail 54 is disposed substantially parallel tothe opposing end rail 56. Each end rail 54, 56 has a first end 58 and asecond end 60 and is preferably positioned along the opposing orthogonalinterior side walls 52 of the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12.In one presently preferred embodiment, the first end 58 of each end rail54, 56 is disposed within the channel 50 adjacent respective ends 62 a,62 b of the first side rail 42. Likewise, the second end 60 of each endrail 54, 56 is disposed within a channel 50 adjacent respective ends 64a, 64 b of the second side rail 44, thereby providing a generallyrectangular shape to substantially correspond with the generallypreferable rectangular shape of the table top 12.

In one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, thefirst and second ends 58, 60 of respective end rails 54, 56 areconfigured with a tab member 66. The tab member 66 may be configured tofit within respective channels 50 beneath the retaining aperture 46 nearthe ends 62, 64 of the respective side rails 42, 44 with the utilitytable 10 in an upright position. It will be readily appreciated by thoseskilled in the art that, in this configuration, the tab members 66 actas levers with the support pedestals 18, 20 (positioned within thechannels 50 near the ends 62, 64 of the respective side rails 42, 44),thus acting as corresponding fulcrums. In this manner, the end rails 54,56 strengthen respective ends 68 a, 68 b of the table top 12, andprotect against bowing of the table top 12 at the ends 68 a, 68 b. Thefirst and second side rails 42, 44 in combination with the first andsecond end rails 54, 56 provide a means for structurally supporting thetable top 12, the support pedestals 18, 20, and the pivotal supportbraces 24, 30. In this configuration, lighter weight table tops 12 maybe used with this novel construction without losing rigidity orstructural integrity.

As will be appreciated, the end rails 54, 56 may interrelate to the siderails 42, 44 in a variety of ways to provide structural support for theutility table 10 and help protect against bowing under various loadsthat may be applied to the utility table 10 For example, the end rails54, 56 may be welded to the side rails 42, 44. The end rails 54, 56 mayalso be bonded to the side rails 42, 44 using a variety of suitableepoxies or resins. Further, the end rails 54, 56 and the side rails 42,44 may be formed as a single unitary piece configured to the desiredsize and shape. Moreover, it will be also appreciated that the end rails54, 56 and the side rails 42, 44 need not interrelate at all, but couldsimply be attached to the respective interior opposing side walls 48, 52of the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12.

In one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, theframe 40 is formed of a substantially sturdy, rigid material sufficientto provide structural integrity to the table top 12. For example, theframe 40 may be formed of metal. However, it will be readily appreciatedthat the frame may be formed of a wide variety of other suitablematerials which are consistent with the spirit and scope of the presentinvention. It will further be appreciated that the size andconfiguration of the frame 40 will depend, in part, on the size andconfiguration of the table top 12. Accordingly, the table top 12 and theframe 40 may be configured in a variety of shapes and configurations,including, but not limited to, a circle, polygon, square, rectangle,triangle, or any other suitable geometrical configuration.

Referring now to FIG. 3, the shape and size of the frame 40 isconfigured to generally conform to the periphery of the mounting surface14 of the table top 12.

Specifically, in one presently preferred embodiment of the presentinvention, the frame 40 is attached in relation to the mounting surface14 by means of fasteners (not shown) which generally penetrate both theframe 40 and an adjacent point of contact of the mounting surface 14. Aswill be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a variety of othersuitable means or methods for attaching the frame 40 to the mountingsurface 14 of the table top 12 may be employed, including, but notlimited to, rivets, screws, bolts, glues, epoxies, or other bondingmaterials.

As can be best seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, the mounting surface 14 of thetable top 12 is preferably configured to facilitate the attachment ofthe frame 40 to the mounting surface of the table top 12, in onepresently preferred embodiment, the mounting surface 14 is configuredwith seats (not shown) positioned such that the end rails 54, 56 may bepositioned between respective opposing orthogonal interior walls 52 andthe seats (not shown). In this configuration, the end rails 54, 56 aresubstantially prevented from bowing inwardly toward the center of theutility table 10 under loads exerted upon the opposing ends of the tabletop.

It will be readily appreciated that the mounting surface 14 need nothave interior side walls 48, 52 at all to practice the teachings of thepresent invention. In this regard, the teachings of the presentinvention may be practiced without a frame 40 if the table top 12 issufficiently rigid. It will further be appreciated by those skilled inthe art that in the embodiments where there is 110 frame, the supportpedestals 18, 20 and cross brace member 36 may be attached to aninterior portion of the mounting surface 14. Further, in preferredembodiments where there are interior side walls 48, 52 but no frame 40,the support pedestals 18, 20 and cross brace member 36 may be positioneddirectly in retaining apertures (not shown) formed within the interiorside walls 48, 52 of the mounting structure 14 of the table top 12.

Referring back to FIG. 2, the support pedestals 18, 20 are pivotallyattached to the mounting surface 14, thereby permitting each of thesupport pedestals 18, 20 to be moved between a collapsed position, inwhich each support pedestal 18, 20 lies flat in substantially the sameplane as the table top 12, and an extended position, in which eachsupport pedestal 18, 20 is folded outward, substantially perpendicularto the plane of the table top 12.

Each support pedestal 18, 20 may include a pair of substantiallyparallel legs, or posts 80. Those of ordinary skill in the art willappreciate that the teachings of the present invention can be practicedif each support pedestal 18, 20 has more or less than two posts 80. Eachpair of posts 80 comprises a first end 82 and a second opposing end 84.In one presently preferred embodiment, the first end 82 of eachrespective pair of posts 80 is secured to a cross pole 86. Respectiveends 88 of each cross pole 86 are preferably positioned within opposingretaining apertures 46 disposed within the opposing side rails 42, 44 ofthe frame 40 such that the support pedestals 18, 20 may be disposedsubstantially parallel to each other. In this configuration, each crosspole 86 rotates within respective pairs of retaining apertures 46 whenrespective pedestals 18, 20 move between the collapsed position and theextended position. In one presently preferred embodiment, a stabilizerarm 90 is preferably disposed between the respective pairs of posts 80to assist in structurally maintaining the spaced-apart relationship ofthe posts 80.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the supportpedestals 18, 20 may be configured in a variety of ways such that topractice the teachings of the present invention. For example, thesupport pedestals 18, 20 may comprise a solid or integral piece or theposts 80 may be curved in a different manner (e.g., see FIG. 3). It willfurther be appreciated by those of skill in the art that the supportpedestals 18, 20 need not be in pivotal engagement with the table top 12to be collapsible. For example, the support pedestals 18, 20 may simplybe detachably engaged in relation to the table top 12 such that when itis desired to collapse the utility table 10 for storage, the supportpedestals 18, 20 are removed from selective engagement with the tabletop 12.

As stated above, the first and second support pedestals 18, 20 arepreferably connected to the table top 12 by means of the first andsecond pivotal support braces 24, 30, respectively. In one presentlypreferred embodiment of the present invention, the proximal ends 26, 32of the respective pivotal support braces 24, 30 are bifurcated tofacilitate pivotal engagement with the posts 80 of the respectivesupport pedestals 18, 20 as illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3. Thebifurcated proximal ends of the pivotal support braces 24, 30 eachpreferably comprise a pair of angled members 100.

Referring specifically to FIG. 2, the angled members 100 may include atab member 102 which pivotally engages and partially overlaps acorresponding tab member 104 adjacent each of the distal ends 28, 34 ofthe pivotal support braces 24, 30, respectively, at an overlappingportion 106. When the support pedestals 18, 20 are in the extendedposition, the tabs 102 of the angled members 100 of the bifurcatedproximal ends 26, 32 are disposed substantially parallel to the tabs 104adjacent each distal end 28, 34 of the pivotal support braces 24, 30.When the support pedestals 18, 20 are in the collapsed position, thetabs 102 of the angled members 100 of the bifurcated proximal ends 26,32 are disposed substantially unparallel to the tabs 104 adjacent eachdistal end 28, 34 of the pivotal support braces 24, 30. The utilitytable 10 may include a pair of locking collars 108 which slidably engagerespective pivotal support braces 24, 30. The locking collars 108 arepreferably sized to fit over respective overlapping portions 106 of thepivotal support braces 24, 30 when the support pedestals 18, 20 are inthe extended position. With the locking collars 108 positioned overrespective overlapping portions 106, the bifurcated proximal ends 26, 32are prevented from moving relative to corresponding distal ends 28, 34of the pivotal support braces 24, 30, thus preventing the supportpedestal supports 18, 20 from being positioned in the collapsed positionwithout first disengaging the locking collars 108, respectively. It willbe appreciated by those skilled in the art that with the utility table10 in an upright position and the support pedestals 18, 20 in theextended position, the collars 108 may, under the force of gravity,position themselves about the overlapping portions 106. It will befurther appreciated that a variety of other locking mechanisms asassemblies may be utilized to lock the support pedestals 18, 20 in theextended position which are consistent with the spirit and scope of thepresent invention, including latches or other fasteners.

With reference now to FIG. 3, the utility table 10 is shown having analternative configuration of the support pedestals 18, 20. In thisalternate embodiment, each support pedestal 18, 20 comprises a firstmember 114 pivotally engaged to the mounting surface 14 of the table top12 and a second member 116 configured for telescoping engagement withthe first member 114, thereby permitting the height of each supportpedestal 18, 20 to be selectively disposed at a plurality ofpredetermined heights between a lengthened position and a retractedposition.

In one presently preferred embodiment, each first member 114 of thesupport pedestals 18, 20 includes a pair of outer members 118 eachhaving a proximal end 120 and a distal end 122. The proximal end of eachouter member 118 is connected to the table top 12 by means of the crosspole 86 to which they are preferably fixed (e, welded). The secondmember 116 of each support pedestal 18, 20 includes a pair of innermembers 124 each having a proximal end 126 and a distal end 128. Theproximal end 126 of the inner members 124 are configured in dimensionalsize and shape to engage the distal ends 122 of the outer members 118 intelescopic engagement. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skillin the art that one or more stabilizer arms 90 may be employed tosupport the telescopic pedestals 18, 20.

Preferably, the inner members 124 and outer members 118 are separated bya hard plastic bushing (not shown) to facilitate the slidable movementof the inner members 124 relative to the outer members 118. Each bushingmay be held in place with two small extensions that extend through smallholes (not shown) in the outer members 118. It will be appreciated bythose of skill in the art that there are a number of ways to facilitatethe telescopic movement of the first member 114 relative to the secondmember 116 of each support pedestal 18, 20.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the support pedestals18, 20 include means for locking the support pedestals 18, 20 inpreselected positions between the retracted position and the lengthenedposition. At least one of the inner members 124 is configured with afirst hole 134. A corresponding outer member 118 may be configured withat least one hole 136 and preferably a plurality of holes 136 positionedsuch that at a preselected table top 12 height the first hole 134 in theinner member 124 may be aligned with a second hole 136 in the outermember 118. In one presently preferred embodiment, a snap pin mechanism138 may be positioned adjacent the first hole 134 within the innermember 124 such that the pin 138 is biased outwardly through the alignedholes 134, 136, thereby locking the inner and outer members 118, 124 ofthe support pedestals 18, 20 in a preselected position. By supplyingsufficient force to the pin mechanism 138, it may be disengaged andremoved from the hole 136 in the outer member 118, thereby permittingrelative movement between the inner 124 and outer 118 members of thesupport pedestals 18, 20 and allowing the support pedestals 18, 20 to beselectively raised or lowered. It will be appreciated by those skilledin the art that a variety of other adjustment mechanisms as assembliesknown in the art for locking the first and second support pedestals 18,20 in an extended position may be utilized and are herein incorporated.

As best shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, the distal ends 28, 34 of eachpivotal support brace 24, 30 are engageably secured to the retainingassembly 36 (e.g., cross brace member). In one presently preferredembodiment of the present invention, the distal ends 28, 34 of eachpivotal support brace 24, 30, respectively, are pivotally attached tothe retaining assembly 36. Each of said distal ends 28, 34 areconfigured with an opening 142 having an interior periphery sufficientfor engaging at least a portion of the linear length of the cross-bracemember 36.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the retainingassembly 36 generally provides structural support to the center of thetable top 12 of the utility table 10. It will further be appreciatedthat with the distal ends 28, 34 attached contiguous each other inretention to the cross brace member 36 forces applied to the table top12 which would ordinarily be transferred through one of the supportpivotal braces 24, 30, respectively, into the table top 12 causing it tobow, will substantially be nullified by the counter force provided bythe opposing pivotal support brace 24, 30, respectively.

For example, the horizontal component of a force applied by a user atone end 68 a of the table top 12 will act upon the pivotal support brace18 and, because the distal ends 28, 34 of the pivotal support braces 24,30, respectively, are attached to the retaining assembly 36, an equaland opposite horizontal force component applied by the other pivotalsupport brace 20 will substantially cancel out the horizontal componentof the original force. Accordingly, the present invention providesincreased structural support to the table top 12 with fewer parts. Aswill be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the retaining assembly36 can be disposed in a variety of configurations which are consistentwith the spirit and scope of the present invention so as to allow thepivotal support braces 24, 30 to supportably interrelate with eachother. Such alternative configurations are discussed below.

With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, the table top 12 is preferablyformed of a blow-molded plastic, and specifically, high densitypolyethylene. It will be appreciated by those of skill in the art,however, that the table top 12 may be formed of a variety of othersufficiently sturdy materials such as, plywood, particle board, solidwood, wood slates, metal alloys, fiberglass, ceramics, graphite, any ofnumerous organic, synthetic or processed materials, includingthermoplastic or thermosetting polymers of high molecular weight with orwithout additives, such as, plasticisers, auto oxidants, extenders,colorants, ultraviolet light stabilizers, or fillers and/or othercomposite materials.

Referring back to FIG. 1, in one presently preferred embodiment of thepresent invention, the working surface 16 of the table top 12 may besmooth or, in the alternative, textured, if desired. In addition, theworking surface 16 may comprise an outer periphery 144 having at least aportion 146 which is beveled to increase the comfort of a person restingtheir arms against the edges of the table top 12. In one presentlypreferred embodiment, the entire outer periphery 144 of the workingsurface 16 of the table top 12 is beveled. The height of the blow-moldedtable top 12 of one presently preferred embodiment is about fivecentimeters, the thickness of any pan 13 of the blow-molded table top 12is preferably about one-half of a centimeter to about three-quarters ofa centimeter.

Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, the mounting surface 14 may include atleast one mounting member 148. Preferably, a pair of mounting members148 is attached to the mounting surface 14 to receive and retain thecross brace member 36 of the retaining assembly. Each mounting member148 includes a groove 150 configured as a corresponding size and shapesufficient to retain the cross brace member 36 therein. In one presentlypreferred embodiment, the cross brace member 36 may be snap fit into thegroove 150 of the mounting member 148.

In greater detail, as shown in FIG. 2, the mounting member 148preferably includes an engagement portion 148 a, and an opening 148 b tothe groove 150. The engagement portion 148 a, the opening 148 b, and thegroove 150 cooperate to retain the cross brace member 36 within themounting member 148. For example, the cross brace member 36 ispreferably snap fit into the groove 150 of each mounting member 148 bypushing the cross brace member 36 into the opening 148 b of the mountingmember 148. The opening 148 b preferably has a size slightly smallerthan the size of the cross brace member 36. Because the cross bracemember 36 is slightly larger than the opening 148 b, the engagementportion 148 a of the mounting member 148 temporarily deforms to allowthe cross brace member 36 to enter the groove 150. When the cross bracemember 36 is inserted into the groove 150, the engagement portion 148 areturns to its normal position and the cross brace member 36 is securelyretained by the mounting member 148.

The mounting member 148 may also have one or more supporting portions148 c. The supporting portions 148 c desirably securely attach themounting member 148 to the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12. Asshown in the accompanying figures, the supporting portions 148 cpreferably extend longitudinally along the length of the table 10 andthey have a sloped or curved outer surface that extends from theengagement portion 148 a to the mounting surface 14 of the table top.One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the mounting member148 may have other suitable shapes and configurations depending, forexample, upon the size and combination of the cross brace member 36 tobe attached to the table top 12.

Advantageously, the mounting member 148 may be integrally formed as partof a one-piece structure with the table top 12. In particular, themounting member 148 is preferably constructed as an integral part of thetable top 12 when it is formed from a blow-molded plastic such as highdensity polyethylene. Significantly, if the mounting member 148 isintegrally formed as part of the table top 12, the mounting member 148does not have to be screwed, bolted, bonded or otherwise connected tothe mounting surface 14 of the table top. Thus, the integrally formedmounting member 148 does not compromise the integrity or decrease thestrength of the table top 12 by requiring the mounting member to bescrewed, bolted or bonded to the table top. One skilled in the art,however, will understand that the mounting member 148 could be connectedto the table top 12 by any suitable mechanism or method such asfasteners, adhesives and the like.

Additionally, the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 may furtherinclude one or more securing members 152 for securing each of thesupport pedestals 18, 20, respectively. Preferably, a pair of securingmembers 152 are disposed in relation to the mounting surface 14 forreleasably securing a respective support pedestal 18, 20 in thecollapsed position adjacent the mounting surface 14. Each securingmember 152 is generally configured and disposed relative to the mountingsurface 14 such that when the support pedestals 18, 20 are in thecollapsed position, at least one securing member 152 frictionallyengages a support pedestal post 80 such that the support pedestals 18,20, respectively, are maintained in the collapsed position, asillustrated in FIG. 3. In one presently preferred embodiment, a pair ofsecuring members 152 are offset on opposing sides of a single supportpedestal post 80 for securing each of the support pedestals 18 or 20,respectively, in the collapsed position. It will be apparent that othermechanisms may be constructed in accordance with the inventiveprinciples set forth herein for securing the support pedestals 18, 20 inthe collapsed position. It is intended, therefore, that the examplesprovided herein be viewed as exemplary of the principles of the presentinvention, and not as restrictive to a particular structure forimplementing those principles.

It will also be apparent that the securing members 152 may be configuredto contact any desired portion of the support pedestals. For example,the securing members 152 may be configured to engage post 80 alongeither the first member 114, as shown in FIG. 3, the second member 116,or both, if desired. Alternatively, securing members 152 could bedisposed on the mounting surface 14 to engage both posts 80 of arespective support pedestal 18, 20. One skilled in the art willappreciate that the securing members 152 could be disposed in anysuitable positions depending, for example, upon the desired portion ofthe support pedestal to be engaged by the securing members.

In greater detail, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, each securing member 152desirably includes an engagement portion 152 a, a receiving portion 152b and a support portion 152 c. The engagement portion 152 a includes alip or forwardly extending extension that overhangs at least a portionof the receiving portion 152 b. The receiving portion 152 b is sized andconfigured to receive a portion of the support pedestal 18, 20, such asthe post 80. The support portion 152 c supports the securing member 152in the desired location.

The engagement portion 152 a and receiving portion 152 b of the securingmember 152 cooperate to releasably secure a respective support pedestal18, 20 in the collapsed position. For example, when it is desired tomove a support pedestal 18, 20 into the collapsed position, the pedestalis pivoted towards the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12. As thesupport pedestal 18, 20 approaches the table top 12, a portion of thesupport pedestal contacts the engagement portion 152 a. This contactcauses the engagement portion 152 a to temporarily deform or move toallow a portion of the support pedestal 18, 20 to be received by thereceiving portion 152 b. Once the support pedestal 18, 20 is receivedwithin the receiving portion 152 b, the engagement portion 152 a returnsto its original shape or position, and that prevents the supportpedestal 18, 20 from being inadvertently released from the securingmember 152. The support pedestal 18, 20 is now secured in its collapsedposition within the securing member 152, as shown in FIG. 3. When it isdesired to move the support pedestal 18, 20 from the collapsed positionto an extended position, the support pedestal is simply pivoted awayfrom the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 with a force sufficientto remove the support pedestal from the receiving portion 152 b and pastthe engagement portion 152 a, thereby removing the support pedestal fromthe securing member 152.

As seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, the receiving portion 152 b preferably has acurved surface to receive the support pedestal 18, 20. In particular,the receiving portion 152 b preferably has a concave surface and theengagement portion 152 a includes an extension or lip that extends atleast partly beyond the concave surface of the receiving portion 152 b.Advantageously, the engagement portion 152 a and receiving portion 152 ballow the support pedestal 18, 20 to be snap fit into the securingmember 152. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the engagementportion 152 a and receiving portion 152 b may have other suitableconfigurations depending, for example, upon the shape and configurationof the support pedestal 18, 20 or the position of the support pedestalto be releasably secured by the securing member 152.

The securing member 152 preferably includes one or more support portions152 c to securely attach the securing member 152 to the mounting surface14 of the table top 12. As shown in the accompanying figures, thesupporting portion 152 c preferably extends in the opposing direction asthe receiving portion 152 b and has a sloped or curved outer surfacethat extends from the engagement portion 152 a to the mounting surface14 of the table top 12. One skilled in the art will understand that thesecuring member 152 may have other suitable shapes and configurationsdepending, for example, upon the size and configuration of the portionof the support pedestal 18 20 to be releasably secured.

Advantageously, the securing member 152 may be integrally formed as partof a one-piece structure with the table top 12. In particular, thesecuring member 152 is preferably constructed as an integral part of thetable top 12 when it is formed from a blow-molded plastic such as highdensity polyethylene. Significantly, if the securing member 152 isintegrally formed as part of the table top 12, it does not have to bescrewed, bolted, bonded or otherwise connected to the mounting surface14 of the table top. Thus, the integrally formed securing member 152does not compromise the integrity or decrease the strength of the tabletop 12 by requiring the securing member to be screwed, bolted or bondedto the table top. One skilled in the art, however, will understand thatthe securing member 152 could be connected to the table top 12 by anysuitable mechanism or method such as fasteners, adhesives and the like.

As best shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a first manifold 154 and a secondmanifold 156 are preferably disposed at opposing ends 68 a, 68 b of thetable top 12. The manifolds 154, 156 provide additional support for theends 68 a, 68 b of the table top 12 and assist in facilitating the blowmolding process by providing a means for uniformly dispersing air downthe length of the table top 12. The mounting surface 14 of the table top12 may also include a plurality of depressions 158 (e.g., kiss-offs)which tend to add structural support and integrity to the table top 12.In one presently preferred embodiment, these depressions 158 areuniformly distributed throughout the mounting surface 14 of the tabletop 12.

The structural features of the table top 12, including the beveled edgesand/or textured working surface 16, the mounting members 148, thesecuring members 152, the manifolds 154, 156, and the depressions 158may be integral with the table top 12 and may be formed by means of acorresponding mold and blow-molding process. It will be appreciated bythose skilled in the art that there are alternative ways to create andattach these features. For example, the mounting members 148, securingmembers 152, and manifolds 154, 156 may be separate pieces that areattached to the mounting surface 14 by adhesive bonding or the use ofconventional fasteners. Likewise, the texturing and/or beveling of theedges of the working surface of the table top and the introduction ofdepressions into the mounting surface may also be accomplished after thetable top 12 is molded by a variety of conventional methods readilyknown in the art.

As best illustrated in FIG. 1, when the utility table 10 is disposed inan upright position in relation to an underlying surface and the supportpedestals 18, 20 extended with the collars 108 placed over theoverlapping portions 106 of the respective pivotal support braces 24,30, the utility table 10 of the present invention is positioned for use.When a user desires to collapse the utility table 10 for storage, onepresently preferred method for doing so is to invert the utility table10, as shown in FIG. 3. With the utility table 10 in the invertedposition, the collars 108 may be slid away from engagement with theoverlapping portion 106 of the respective pivotal support braces 24, 30.This allows the support pedestals 18, 20 to be folded inwardly towardthe table top 12 into the collapsed position. With the support pedestals18, 20 in the collapsed position, the utility table 10 can easily bemoved and stored.

With reference now to FIG. 4, another presently preferred embodiment ofthe utility table of the present invention is generally designated at210. In this embodiment, the utility table 210 includes a table top 12having a mounting surface 14 and a working surface 16 disposed oppositethe mounting surface 14. A first support pedestal 18 and a secondsupport pedestal 20 are pivotally attached to the mounting surface 14 ofthe table top 12. Preferably, the first and second support pedestals 1820 are independently attached to a support bar 212 having opposing ends211 configured to engage receiving apertures 46 formed in opposing siderails 42, 44 of a rigid flame 40 supportably disposed in relation to thetable top 12.

In one presently preferred embodiment, the support bar 212 is configuredhaving a bend formed at its opposing ends 211 to ensure that the firstand second support pedestals 18, 20, respectively, fold properly againstthe mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 when disposed in thecollapsed position As appreciated, the slight bend formed at theopposing ends 211 of the support bar 212 has the structural effect ofextending the central portion of the support bar 212 away from the axisof rotation of the support bar 212 relative to the frame 40. Moreover,the bending configuration of the support bar 212 at its opposing ends211 provides additional safety, in proportion to the weight appliedagainst the table top 12, by maintaining the first and second supportpedestals 18 and 20 in the extended position

The support bar 212 may be omitted from engagement with the proximal end120 of the support pedestals 18, 20 in favor of a suitable attachmentassembly designed to facilitate pivotal engagement between the supportpedestals 18, 20 and the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12. Thoseskilled in the art will readily recognize other possible modificationsand adaptations which are consistent with the spirit and scope of thepresent invention and which are herein contemplated by the presentinvention.

Still referring to FIG. 4, the utility table 210 of the presentinvention may include each first member 114 of the support pedestals 18,20 having a pair of outer members 118 each having a proximal end 120 anda distal end 122. The proximal end of each outer member 118 is connectedto the table top 12 by means of the support bar 212 to which they arepreferably fixed (e.g., welded). The second member 116 of each supportpedestal 18, 20 includes a pair of inner members 124 each having aproximal end 126 and a distal end 128. The proximal end 126 of the innermembers 124 are configured in dimensional size and shape to slidablyengage the distal ends 122 of the outer members 118 in telescopicengagement.

Preferably, the inner members 124 and outer members 118 are separated bya hard plastic bushing (not shown) to facilitate the slidable movementof the inner members 124 relative to the outer members 118. Each bushingmay be held in place with two small extensions that extend through smallholes (not shown) in the outer members 118. It will be appreciated bythose of skill in the art that there are numerous ways to facilitate thetelescopic movement of the first member 114 relative to the secondmember 116 of each support pedestal 18, 20 which are readilycontemplated herein. It is also contemplated herein that the length ofthe support pedestals 18, 20 may be fixed and, thus not selectivelyadjustable to a plurality of heights.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, an elongated foot member 213 may be rigidlyattached at the distal end 128 of each of the inner members 124 of thesupport pedestals 18, 20 so as to provide additional stability to thetable top 12 when disposed in the upright position.

Preferably, the foot member 213 facilitates a more even dispersion ofthe supportable weight of the utility table 210 over a greater portionof the underlying surface in addition, because the length of the footmember 213 tends to span the distance between the first and secondmembers 114, 116, one or more stabilizer arms 90 may be unnecessary.

Similar to the preferred embodiments of the utility table illustrated inFIGS. 1-3, the utility table 210 includes a first pivotal support brace224 having a bifurcated proximal end 226 attached to the first supportpedestal 18 and a distal end 228 pivotally attached to a first retainingassembly 36 a. Similarly, a second pivotal support brace 230 having abifurcated proximal end 232 attached to the second support pedestal 20and a distal end 234 pivotally attached to a second retaining assembly36 b. In one presently preferred embodiment, each of the retainingassemblies 36 a, 36 b comprise a cross-brace member having opposing endsand an intermediate body portion formed therebetween. Each of the distalends 228, 234 of the pivotal support braces 224, 230 are configured withopenings 242 having an internal periphery sufficient for engaging atleast a portion of the length of the intermediate body portion of thecross-brace members 36 a, 36 b, respectively.

The opposing ends of the first and second cross-brace members 36 a, 36b, respectively, are configured so as to be introduced and retainedwithin corresponding retaining apertures 46 formed in opposing siderails 42, 44 of the frame 40 or, in the alternative, within opposing,interior side walls of the table top 12. Preferably, the first andsecond cross-brace members 36 a, 36 b are separated by a central portion216 of the table top 12. Structurally, this central potion 216 of thetable top 12 must have sufficient structural integrity to support acompressive load, either through the frame 40, the entire surface of thetable top 12, or by some combination of the two, when weight is appliedagainst the table top 12 to avoid bowing.

The dual cross-brace supportable configuration of the utility table 210of the present invention is advantageous because the pivotal supportbraces 24, 30 obstruct less of the available space beneath the table top12 and between the support pedestals 18, 20 Consequently, more room isavailable to accommodate the legs of one or more users beneath the tabletop 12, thereby making the utility table 210 more comfortable to users.Furthermore, the absence of the cross-brace members 36 a, 36 b from thecentral portion 216 of the table top 12 provides usable storage space toaccommodate the foot members 213 when the support pedestals 18, 20 aredisposed in the collapsed position. As will be appreciated by thoseskilled in the art, the central portion 216 integrally formed in themounting surface 14 of the table top 12 may be configured having a wideror narrower dimension than illustrated by way of example in FIG. 4,depending on the overall extended length of the table top 12, thesupportable weight the table top is designed to bear, the size of thefoot members 213, and/or the need for usable space beneath the table top12 when the utility table 210 is disposed in the usable position.

In one presently preferred embodiment, a pair of locking collars 217 isprovided which slidably engage respective overlapping portions of thepivotal support braces 224, 230. The locking collars 217 are preferablyconfigured and sized such that when the support pedestals 18, 20 areselectively disposed in the extended position, the locking collars 217may be engageably positioned in relation to the overlapping portions toprevent the bifurcated proximal ends 226, 232 from moving relative tothe corresponding distal ends 228, 234 of the pivotal support braces224, 230, thus preventing the support pedestal supports 18, 20 frombeing positioned in the collapsed position without first disengaging thelocking collars 217, respectively.

As with the previous preferred embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, aplurality of kiss-offs 218 may be formed in the mounting surface 14 ofthe table top 12 to add structural integrity and strength to the workingsurface 16 of the blow molded table top. In addition, a plurality ofplateaus 219 and longitudinal trenches 220 may also be formed in themounting surface 14 to further add stiffening and strength to the tabletop 12. Correspondingly, these plateaus 219 and trenches 220 operablyfunction to increase the section modulus of the table top 12 by movingmaterial away from the neutral axis of the table top 12, thus making itmore difficult to bend the table top 12 in a longitudinal direction, aswhen a heavy load is positioned in the middle of the table top 12. Aswill be appreciated, the kiss-offs 218 may be formed within the trenches220 to ensure that the table top 12 can be made hollow without concernthat the working surface 16 may have a tendency to flex inwardly towardthe mounting surface 14 when a weight is placed on the table top 12.

Additionally, an opening 222 may be formed in the table top 12 toprovide means for introducing a support pole of an umbrella assembly(not shown) or the like. Although certain structural elements andcomponents, such as: (1) one or more stabilizer arms 90 engageablydisposed in relation to the first and second member 114, 116 of thesupport pedestals 18, 20 (see FIGS. 2 and 3); (2) one or more mountingmembers 148 for supportably retaining the retaining assembly 36 inrelation to the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 (see FIGS. 2 and3); (3) one or more securing members 152 attached to the mountingsurface 14 of the table top 12 for securing the support pedestals 18, 20in the collapsed position (see FIGS. 2 and 3); (4) one or more manifolds154, 156 that assist in facilitating the blow molding process byproviding for uniform dispersion of air along the length of the blowmolded table top 12 (see FIGS. 2 and 3); and (5) beveled edges and/or atextured working surface 16 (see FIG. 1) have been omitted from theembodiment of the utility table 210 illustrated in FIG. 4. It iscontemplated herein that one or more of these structural features,however, may be incorporated into the alternate design of the utilitytable 210, if desired.

With reference now to FIG. 5, another presently preferred embodiment ofthe utility table of the present invention is (generally designated at310. As shown, the utility table 310 includes a table top 12 having amounting surface 14 and a working surface 16 disposed opposite themounting surface. Structurally, the table top 12 is preferably supportedabove an underlying surface by a first support pedestal 18 and a secondsupport pedestal 20 disposed at spaced-apart relationship to the firstsupport pedestal. Both the first and second support pedestals 18, 20 arepreferably attached to the mounting surface 14 or, in the alternative,to a rigid support frame 40. A first pivotal support brace 324 includesa proximal end 326 pivotally attached to the first support pedestal 18and a distal end 328 pivotally attached to a retaining assembly 36.Similarly, a second pivotal support brace 330 is shown having a proximalend 332 pivotally attached to the second support pedestal 20 and adistal end 334 pivotally attached to the retaining assembly 36 As willbe appreciated, the distal ends 328, 334 of the first and second pivotalsupport brace 324, 330, respectively, may be pivotally attached to themounting surface 14 by means of a engaging bracket (not shown).

Because the alternate preferred embodiment of the utility table 310, asillustrated in FIG. 5, is substantially similar in construction to theutility table 10 shown in FIGS. 1-3, only those structural variationswhich exist between these two embodiments will be further disclosedhereinbelow.

Specifically, one presently preferred embodiment of the utility table310 includes a first support pedestal 18 having two support legs 312,314. Each of the support legs 314, 312 of the first support pedestal 18may be formed having a proximate end 316 rigidly attached to a crosspole 86 mounted in pivotal relation to the frame 40 or, in thealternative, to the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 independentof the other leg. Similarly, each of the support legs 314, 312 of thesecond support pedestal 20 may be formed having a proximate end 316rigidly attached to a cross pole 86 mounted in pivotal relation to theframe 40 or, in the alternative, to the mounting surface 14 of the tabletop 12 independent of the other leg.

To accommodate a table top 12 having a length that is smaller than thefixed or extendable length of the legs 312, 314 of the support pedestals18, 20, the relative disposition of the distal ends 318 of each of thesupport legs 312, 314 of the first support pedestal 18 are offset fromthe corresponding distal ends 318 of each of the support legs 312, 314of the second support pedestal 20 disposed on an opposite side of thetable top 12. The distal end 318 of the first support leg 312 of thefirst support pedestal 18 is offset in a lateral direction 320 from thesecond support leg 314 of the first support pedestal. Similarly, thedistal end 318 of the first support leg 312 of the second supportpedestal 20 is offset in a lateral direction 320 from the second supportleg 314 of the second support pedestal 20. This offset configurationenables the use of a smaller table top 12 and frame 40 because thesupport pedestals 18, 20 can include a length greater than the distancebetween the opposing ends of the table top 12, and yet still fold into aparallel configuration relative to the mounting surface 14 of the tabletop 12 without interference by the distal ends 318 of each of thesupport legs 312, 314 of the first and second support pedestals 18, 20.

The foregoing function can be structurally accomplished in a variety ofways. For example, both the proximal and distal ends 316, 318 of thesupport legs 312, 314 may be laterally offset so that the legs 312, 314are always parallel to the frame 40, as shown in FIG. 5. Alternatively,the proximal ends 316 may remain aligned in the folded position, and thelegs 312, 314 may fold at an angle. This may be done by pivotallymounting the proximal ends 316 to the mounting surface 14 at an angle,or by mounting the cross pole 86 at a diagonal angle with respect to theframe 40 and table top 12.

As discussed above, the retaining assembly 36 generally providesstructural support to the center of the table top 12 of the utilitytable 310. It will be further appreciated that with the distal ends 328,334 attached contiguous each other in retention to the cross-bracemember 36, forces applied to the table top 12 which would ordinarily betransferred through one of the support pivotal braces 324, 330,respectively, into the table top 12 causing it to bow, willsubstantially be nullified by the counter force provided by the opposingpivotal support brace 324, 330, respectively.

For example, the horizontal component of a force applied by a user atone end of the table top 12 will act upon the one of the supportpedestals 18, 20 and, because the distal ends 328, 334 of the pivotalsupport braces 224, 330, respectively, are attached to the retainingassembly 36, an equal and opposite horizontal force component applied bythe other pivotal support brace 18, 20 will cancel out the horizontalforce component of the original force. Accordingly, although the supportlegs 212, 214 of the support pedestals 18, are offset, the structuralconfiguration of the present invention provides increased structuralsupport to the table top 12 with fewer parts. As will be appreciated bythose skilled in the art, the retaining assembly 36 may be disposed in avariety of configurations which are consistent with the spirit and scopeof the present invention so as to slow the pivotal support braces 324,330 to supportably interrelate with each other. Moreover, the utilitytable 210 shown in FIG. 4 and discussed in detail hereinabove, mayinclude support pedestals 18, 20 that comprise spaced apart support legswhich are offset from the corresponding support legs of the opposingsupport pedestal to provide the advantages of overlapping the legs, ifdesired.

Although certain structural elements and components, such as: (1)telescoping support legs operable to adjust the height of the table top12 above an underlying surface, (2) a second cross-brace member 36 bformed independent of a first cross-brace member 36 a (see FIG. 4); (3)a plurality of kiss-offs 158 formed in the mounting surface 14 of thetable top 12 (see FIGS. 2 and 3), (4) one or more mounting members 148for supportably retaining the retaining assembly 36 in relation to themounting surface 14 of the table top 12 (See FIGS. 2 and 3), (5) one ormore securing members 152 attached to the mounting surface 14 of thetable top 12 for securing the support pedestals 18, 20 in the collapsedposition (see FIGS. 2 and 3); (6) one or more manifolds 154, 156 thatassist in facilitating the blow molding process by providing for uniformdispersion of air along the length of the blow molded table top 12 (seeFIGS. 2 and 3); (7) a bend formed in the opposing ends 211 of thesupport bar 212 (see FIG. 4); (8) beveled edges and/or a texturedworking surface 16 (See FIG. 1); and (9) a plurality of plateaus 219 andlongitudinal trenches 220 may also be formed in the mounting surface 14to further add stiffening and strength to the table top 12 (see FIG. 4)have been omitted from the embodiment of the utility table 310illustrated in FIG. 5. It is contemplated herein that one or more of theforegoing structural however, may be incorporated into the design of theutility table 310, if desired.

Many of the problems associated with prior art portable folding utilitytables are addressed by the teachings of the present invention. From theabove discussion, it will be appreciated that the present inventionprovides a novel portable folding utility table having a center supportassembly that is durable enough to withstand increased wear and tear,yet is lightweight enough to easily set up and take down. The presentinvention also provides a utility table with a center support retainingassembly that provides increased stability and structural integrity withan efficient design that allows the interrelation of the supportpedestals to each other. The center support retaining assembly of theutility table of the present invention is also cost effective tomanufacture and does not compromise the structural integrity of thetable top. The present invention also provides a portable foldingutility table that includes a work surface disposed at a height that iscomfortable to work at. Additionally, features are provided to improvethe functionality of longer and smaller tables under various use andloading conditions.

It should be appreciated that the apparatus of the present invention iscapable of being incorporated in the form of a variety of embodiments,only a few of which have been illustrated and described above. Theinvention may be embodied in other forms without departing from itsspirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to beconsidered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. Thescope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claimsrather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come withinthe meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embracedwithin their scope.

1. A method of using a table, the table including a table top includingan upper portion, a lower portion and a hollow interior portion that areintegrally formed as part of a unitary, one-piece construction, a firstleg assembly movable between an extended position and a collapsedposition relative to the table top, a second leg assembly movablebetween an extended position and a collapsed position relative to thetable top, a first securing member integrally formed in the lowerportion of the table top as part of the unitary, one-piece construction,the first securing member including a hollow interior portion that is incommunication with the hollow interior portion of the table top, thefirst securing member being sized and configured to receive and retainthe first leg assembly in the collapsed position, a second securingmember integrally formed in the lower portion of the table top as partof the unitary, one-piece construction, the second securing memberincluding a hollow interior portion that is in communication with thehollow interior portion of the table top, the second securing memberbeing sized and configured to receive and retain the second leg assemblyin the collapsed position, the method comprising: moving the first legassembly from the collapsed position to the extended position when it isdesired to use the table; moving the second leg assembly from thecollapsed position to the extended position when it is desired to usethe table; moving the first leg assembly from the extended position tothe collapsed position when it is desired to move or store the table;and moving the second leg assembly from the extended position to thecollapsed position when it is desired to move or store the table.
 2. Amethod of constructing a table top, the method comprising: blow-moldinga table top from plastic, the table top including an upper portion, alower portion and a hollow interior portion disposed between the upperportion and the lower portion, the upper portion, the lower portion andthe hollow interior portion being integrally formed during theblow-molding process as part of a unitary, one-piece construction; andintegrally forming a first securing member in the lower portion of thetable top as part of the unitary, one-piece construction, the firstsecuring member being sized and configured to receive and retain a firstleg assembly in a collapsed position relative to the table top, thefirst securing member including a hollow interior portion that is incommunication with the hollow interior portion of the table top.
 3. Themethod of constructing a table top as in claim 2, further comprisingintegrally forming a second securing member in the lower portion of thetable top as part of the unitary, one-piece construction, the secondsecuring member being sized and configured to receive and retain asecond leg assembly in a collapsed position relative to the table top,the second securing member including a hollow interior portion that isin communication with the hollow interior portion of the table top. 4.The method of constructing a table top as in claim 2, further comprisingdisposing a first side rail at least proximate a first side of the tabletop; and further comprising disposing a second side rail at leastproximate the second side of the table top.
 5. The method ofconstructing a table top as in claim 4, further comprising connectingthe first leg assembly to the table top, the first leg assembly movablebetween an extended position and the collapsed position relative to thetable top, the first leg assembly being at least substantially disposedbetween the first side rail and the second side rail when the first legassembly is in the collapsed position; and further comprising connectingthe second leg assembly to the table top, the second leg assemblymovable between an extended position and the collapsed position relativeto the table top, the second leg assembly being at least substantiallydisposed between the first side rail and the second side rail when thesecond leg assembly is in the collapsed position.
 6. The method ofconstructing a table top as in claim 5, further comprising integrallyforming a first receiving portion in the lower portion of the table topas part of the unitary, one-piece construction, the first receivingportion being sized and configured to receive and retain a portion ofthe frame in a fixed position relative to the table top, the firstreceiving portion including a hollow interior portion that is in directcommunication with the hollow interior portion of the table top.
 7. Themethod of constructing a table top as in claim 6, further comprisingintegrally forming a second receiving portion in the lower portion ofthe table top as part of the unitary, one-piece construction, the secondreceiving portion being sized and configured to receive and retain aportion of the frame in a fixed position relative to the table top, thesecond receiving portion including a hollow interior portion that is indirect communication with the hollow interior portion of the table top.8. The method of constructing a table top as in claim 7, wherein thefirst receiving portion includes an engaging portion and a receivingportion, the engaging portion being sized and configured to engage theportion of the frame, the receiving portion being sized and configuredto receive the portion of the frame; and wherein the second receivingportion includes an engaging portion and a receiving portion, theengaging portion being sized and configured to engage the portion of theframe, the receiving portion being sized and configured to receive theportion of the frame.
 9. The method of constructing a table top as inclaim 2, wherein the first securing member includes an engaging portionand a receiving portion, the engaging portion being sized and configuredto engage the first leg assembly when the first leg assembly is movedfrom an extended position to the collapsed position, the receivingportion being sized and configured to receive the first leg assembly inthe collapsed position.
 10. The method of constructing a table top as inclaim 3, wherein the second securing member includes an engaging portionand a receiving portion, the engaging portion being sized and configuredto engage the second leg assembly when the second leg assembly is movedfrom an extended position to the collapsed position, the receivingportion being sized and configured to receive the second leg assembly inthe collapsed position.
 11. The method of constructing a table top as inclaim 2, further comprising integrally forming a generally downwardlyextending lip as part of the unitary, one-piece construction, the firstsecuring member being spaced apart from the lip by a distance that isgreater than or equal to a width of the lip.
 12. The method ofconstructing a table top as in claim 3, further comprising integrallyforming a generally downwardly extending lip as part of the unitary,one-piece construction; wherein the first securing member is spacedapart from the lip by a distance that is greater than or generally equalto a width of the lip; and wherein the second securing member is spacedapart from the lip by a distance that is greater than or generally equalto a width of the lip.
 13. The method of constructing a table top as inclaim 2, wherein the first securing member is integrally formed in thelower portion of the table top independently from any other structuresthat are integrally formed in the lower portion of the table top. 14.The method of constructing a table top as in claim 3, wherein the firstsecuring member is integrally formed in the lower portion of the tabletop independently from any other structures that are integrally formedin the lower portion of the table top; and wherein the second securingmember is integrally formed in the lower portion of the table topindependently from any other structures that are integrally formed inthe lower portion of the table top.
 15. The method of constructing atable top as in claim 2, wherein the wall thickness of the upper portionof the table top is generally equal to the wall thickness of the lowerportion of the table top.
 16. The method of constructing a table top asin claim 2, further comprising connecting a frame to the lower portionof the table top, the frame including a first side rail and a secondside rail; and further comprising a support pedestal to the table top,the support pedestal being movable between an extended position and acollapsed position relative to the table top, the support pedestal beingat least substantially disposed between the first side rail and thesecond side rail when the first support pedestal is in the collapsedposition, the first securing member being disposed between and spacedapart from the first side rail and the second side rail by a distance.17. The method of constructing a table top as in claim 2, wherein thefirst securing member has a wall thickness generally equal to the wallthickness of the lower portion of the table top.
 18. The method ofconstructing a table top as in claim 2, further comprising a pluralityof depressions integrally formed in the lower surface of the table topas a unitary part of the table top, the depressions extending from thelower surface of the table top towards the upper surface of the tabletop, the depressions being sized and configured to increase the strengthof the table top, the first securing member being disposed between atleast four depressions that are arranged in a generallyrectangular-shaped configuration.
 19. The method of constructing a tabletop as in claim 2, further comprising a plurality of depressionsintegrally formed in the lower surface of the table top as a unitarypart of the table top, the depressions extending from the lower surfaceof the table top towards the upper surface of the table top, thedepressions being sized and configured to increase the strength of thetable top, the first securing member being disposed between at least sixdepressions that are arranged in a generally hexagon-shapedconfiguration.
 20. The method of constructing a table top as in claim 2,further comprising a plurality of depressions integrally formed in thelower surface of the table top as a unitary part of the table top, thedepressions extending from the lower surface of the table top towardsthe upper surface of the table top, the depressions being sized andconfigured to increase the strength of the table top, the plurality ofdepressions having a generally uniform configuration and being arrangedin a generally uniform pattern that covers at least a substantialportion of the lower portion of the table top.